The strength of our Nation is found in the character of our citizens.
During National Character Counts Week, we recommit ourselves to instilling
strong values in our youth and encourage all Americans to develop good
character.

Parents and families can teach children the timeless principles of respect,
responsibility, honesty, commitment, and compassion. In our communities,
parents, mentors, clergy members, teachers, coaches, and neighbors serve as
role models by dedicating their time and talents to help others. At home
and abroad, members of our Armed Forces exemplify the true character of our
Nation by bravely protecting our freedom and serving a cause greater than
self.

The Helping America's Youth initiative, led by First Lady Laura Bush,
connects young people with caring adults and community organizations that
help them avoid risky behavior and achieve success. By becoming actively
involved in the lives of children, we can help our young people make the
right choices and lead lives of integrity and achievement.

National Character Counts Week is an opportunity for our citizens to
reaffirm their responsibility to their communities and to recognize the
importance of teaching strong values to our next generation of leaders.
For more information on ways to set a positive example and make a lasting
contribution to the future of our country, citizens can visit
volunteer.gov.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 19 through October
25, 2008, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon public officials,
educators, librarians, parents, students, and all Americans to observe this
week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-third.